UPDATED EVERY FRIDAY

WATER CONDITIONS:  

Water level is normal across WNC, with good visibility.    Water temperature varying in the  70′s.

French Broad River is still off color with 2′ visibility.  Nolichucky and Pigeon are fishing great with clear water and a slightly below water level.

Water watch:                         

• Nolichucky
• French Broad River
• Pigeon River

FLY SUGGESTIONS:  

Crawfish, Poppers.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

In case you are not aware, new regulations are in effect for Smallmouth Bass.

SIZE LIMIT: 14-inch minimum, except 2 may be less than 14 inches.

DAILY CREEL LIMIT: 5 in combination, including only 2 less than 14 inches.

This may not be good for long term fish populations.   What this inevitably could mean is that there will be less fish in the river and smaller fish all around.  Smallmouth in the 14″-20″ range are responsible for most reproduction.   Take those away, and you end up with a larger population of small fish that are eating all the food and not reproducing.  This could be bad news for those of us that support catch and release conservation practices.

To voice your opinion and concerns, contact the commissioners office at 919-707-0010.  Or email the chairman at dwhj@bellsouth.net

 

 

With the below average, cooler temperatures we are having, the Smallmouth are looking up and top water action is great right now.  Poppers and other buggy top water flies have been producing good numbers and bigger fish in the 3-4lb. range.   Fishing has been most productive on overcast days with scattered thunderstorms.   On clear days, fish are spooking quicker forcing longer casts and stealth tactics.

 

Interested in getting out on the water for a day of fishing?  Let the professional fly fishing guides from Curtis Wright Outfitters take you there!

 

 

 

 

PROJECTED CONDITIONS: